The online version of the trenchless assessment guide (TAG) was developed by the Trenchless Technology Centre (TTC) at Louisiana Tech University. TAG identifies project attributes including diameter, length, depth of cover, geological and hydro-geological conditions and allowable pipe materials.

TAG has been modified to meet the Australasian Society for Trenchless Technology (ASTT) specific requirements such as the use of metric units, additional geological conditions and new features. TAG was also redeveloped as a web-based application.

Trenchless assessment guide

The program contains a detailed database of thirty construction methods used for installing or replacing buried utilities and conduits, grouped under three main categories. The categories are trenchless methods for installation along a new alignment, inline replacement methods and traditional open cut methods.

The information provided for each construction includes a short description, the technical limitations, compatibility with common geological conditions, construability characteristics and colour images.

The primary function of the program is to evaluate the specific attributes associated with a given utility construction project in the context of all available construction methods. TAG assists the user in identifying methods that are suitable for the specific project.

Operating TAG

The user begins by selecting the type of problem that needs to be addressed. Then the user enters the construction parameters including, drive length, pipe diameter, depth of cover and other relevant information.

TAG will then ask the user to input the local geological and hydro-geological conditions as well as the specific pipe installation details. These details should include the allowable extent of excavating, the host pipe material and allowable new pipe materials.

TAG evaluates the risk

The technical evaluation screen identifies the methods that are capable of performing the proposed installation based on the information the user has provided.

TAG then directs the user to perform a project specific risk analysis. The program alerts the user to the various risks associated with trenchless construction methods and how to mitigate these risks. How can TAG work for you?

TAG is a tool for new as well as experienced users of trenchless technology. The online system evaluates the degree of suitability of current and emerging construction methods for particular projects.

The software online format makes it easy to use. The user does not need to install TAG on their computer. Furthermore as TAG is installed on a centralised server upgrades can be made to include the latest information about emerging construction methods and products, ensuring access to current and accurate information.

The TTC, in collaboration with the National Association of Sewer Service Companies is in the process of completing TAG-R. TAG-R is a sister software program that covers over eighty methods for the rehabilitation of gravity driven drains and sewers, force mains, water mains, laterals and manhole structures.

Access to this new web based tool is available through the ASTT’s website: www.astt.com.au